If you’re a fan of quirky collectibles, retro games, or hands-on engineering, there’s something delightfully charming about bringing digital icons into the real world. That’s exactly what happened when a creative maker decided to pay homage to the infamously addictive Flappy Bird by building a mechanical, fully playable version. Flappy Bird took the mobile gaming world by storm in the early 2010s, captivating players with its deceptively simple gameplay and pixelated charm. When the game disappeared from app stores, it became even more of a legend as we remembered it with as part nostalgia, part challenge, and, for some, a collector’s holy grail.

Since a lot of things that were hugely popular back “in the day” are now considered cool and retro, it’s not a surprise that some people would try to bring it back in some form or another. Some would probably just be content with re-creating the app and bringing it back to the digital world but there are some creative people out there that would rather bring it up to another level. If you look at Engineezy’s YouTube channel, you’ll see a lot of truly creative and detailed builds so it’s no wonder he came up with something like this.

Designer: Engineezy

So what if you could play Flappy Bird without a screen? That’s where the mechanical version swoops in. This project reimagines Flappy Bird as a physical arcade game, ensuring that the fun and eventual frustration never have to vanish into digital obscurity. This isn’t just a static display or a cute homage. The mechanical Flappy Bird game is completely playable. Instead of tapping a screen, you mash a real button to keep your bird aloft. The “pipes” you need to dodge are 3D-printed and mounted on a rotating conveyor system, which randomly adjusts their height, just like in the original game. The moving obstacles and the bird’s flapping action are all brought to life with motors and clever mechanical design, capturing the spirit of early electromechanical arcade games.

For collectors and makers, the use of 3D printing, custom electronics, and physical craftsmanship gives this project a unique, tactile appeal. It’s not just memorabilia but is more interactive art. Imagine having this on your shelf, ready to challenge friends or just to marvel at the ingenuity. Flappy Bird’s legacy is part of gaming folklore, and owning a piece of it, especially in such a novel form, connects us to that history. Whether you’re hosting a game night or showing off your collection, a mechanical Flappy Bird is sure to get guests talking. If you’re always hunting for something different to add to your collection, or if you love the blend of art, technology, and nostalgia, this project offers all three in one charming package.

The post Flappy Bird comes to physical life with mechanical build first appeared on Yanko Design.

Few moments in fantasy history are as iconic as Gandalf’s showdown with the Balrog on the Bridge of Khazad-dûm. Now, thanks to a collaboration between Drop and The Lord of the Rings, this epic clash has been immortalized in a way that combines fandom with functionality. The Balrog and Mithrandir Artisan Keycap and Spacebar set offers a chance to bring the magic of Middle-earth to your fingertips, and it’s more than just a collector’s item. It’s a fusion of premium craftsmanship, stunning design, and technical precision that adds a touch of the fantastical to your everyday typing experience.

Designer: Dwarf Factory for Drop

Crafted by Dwarf Factory, each piece is an artisan masterpiece in resin, featuring rich details that evoke the essence of these legendary characters. The Balrog, with its fiery menace and aggressive stance, looks ready to engulf your entire keyboard, while Mithrandir stands resolute, channeling his defiant power just as he did when facing the beast. The level of detail is extraordinary—from the flame-like textures on the Balrog to the serene yet powerful expression of Gandalf, these keycaps are tiny works of art. Available in a 1u size for both characters, and with the Balrog also available as a 6.25u spacebar, these keycaps not only add visual impact but are also fully functional. They integrate smoothly with Cherry MX switches and clones, making them a natural fit for most mechanical keyboards.

The 1u Balrog keycap is nothing short of a fiery masterpiece. Designed to reflect the raw power and menacing presence of Durin’s Bane, it features intricate detailing that brings the dark, fiery creature to life. With its flame-engulfed body and haunting expression, the keycap feels like it’s radiating heat right off your keyboard. The resin material used for the keycap captures the vivid colors of fire, from the burning red to deep molten black, creating a striking visual contrast that mirrors the Balrog’s destructive force. Every angle of this 1u keycap has been meticulously designed to showcase the Balrog’s fearsome nature, making it a perfect choice for those looking to add an element of danger and mystery to their keyboard setup. It fits comfortably on any Cherry MX switch or clone, ensuring that it’s as functional as it is eye-catching.

Mithrandir, or Gandalf, takes center stage in the second 1u keycap, offering a calm but powerful contrast to the Balrog. In this design, Gandalf is depicted in his role as the Grey Pilgrim, holding his staff and ready to face down the ancient evil with the iconic line, “You shall not pass!” The keycap perfectly captures the quiet strength and wisdom that defines the wizard, with intricate detailing in his robes and an expression of calm determination. Crafted in resin, the Mithrandir keycap offers a more subtle aesthetic compared to the fiery Balrog, but its craftsmanship is no less impressive. The muted grey tones and flowing details create a sense of movement, almost as if Gandalf himself is preparing to strike. This keycap serves as a symbol of resilience and courage, and for fans of The Lord of the Rings, it’s a meaningful reminder of Gandalf’s pivotal role in the story.

The pièce de résistance, however, is the 6.25u Balrog spacebar. A true showstopper, this spacebar turns your keyboard into a battleground between the Maiar. Unlike the 1u keycap, the spacebar offers a wider canvas, allowing for even more detail in the Balrog’s fiery design. The flames stretch across the length of the spacebar, creating a dramatic scene that feels like it’s pulled straight from the depths of Moria that comes to life with the backlight switched on. The spacebar also features subtle texturing that mimics the rugged look of stone, further emphasizing the destructive force of the Balrog. With its large profile and vivid design, this spacebar commands attention and becomes the focal point of any keyboard. And, like the other keycaps in the set, it’s compatible with Cherry MX switches, ensuring that your epic setup doesn’t sacrifice functionality for style.

The custom-made keycaps are the perfect combination of nostalgia and utility, seamlessly blending a piece of Tolkien’s world into your everyday life. Whether you’re aligning yourself with the fiery might of the Balrog or the steadfast courage of Mithrandir, these keycaps turn your keyboard into a mini piece of Middle-earth. And with their high-quality resin construction, you can trust that they’re built to last, no matter how epic your typing battles become.

Priced at $49, a notable drop from its original $65, the Balrog and Mithrandir Artisan Keycap and Spacebar set is available for pre-order now, with an estimated shipping date of February 10, 2025.

The post Custom Balrog and Gandalf Keycaps give your Mechanical Keyboard a LOTR Middle-Age facelift first appeared on Yanko Design.